Delicious Southern Redneck Caviar Recipe for Food Lovers

Picture this: it’s a hot summer day and you’re at a gathering with friends and family. The grill is fired up, the drinks are cold, but what about the appetizers? Look no further than my Southern Redneck Caviar recipe. Trust me, this dish is not your typical upscale caviar found in fancy restaurants. This is a down-home, southern-style caviar that is sure to delight your taste buds.

I first learned of this recipe from a dear friend named Janet who hailed from Georgia. She loved it so much that she included it in her new cookbook which is coming next month! You may have heard it referred to as Cowboy Caviar, Texas Caviar or Carolina Caviar but I like to call it Southern Redneck Caviar because of its humble ingredients and origins.

So what makes this dish so special? It’s a mouth-watering blend of vegetables and legumes that can be served cold or room temperature, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings. Its zesty red wine vinegar dressing provides a tangy punch while the Italian dressing adds the perfect balance of flavor. Trust me when I say that once you try my Southern Redneck Caviar recipe, you’ll be hooked. Don’t just take my word for it though – give it a try yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Redneck Caviar
Southern Redneck Caviar

Listen up, folks! I’m here to tell you about a recipe that’ll knock your socks off. It’s called Southern Redneck Caviar, and let me tell you, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

The reason this recipe is so great is that it combines all the best flavors of Southern cuisine in one dish. It’s got black-eyed peas, shoepeg corn, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers all mixed together in a delicious vinegar dressing. And let’s not forget about the black beans and black olives giving it that extra zing.

But what really sets this dish apart is how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer with tortilla chips or as a side dish with your favorite BBQ meats. It even makes for a great bean dip if you’re feeling fancy. And if you’re looking for something with a little extra kick, simply add some chili powder or cumin to really bring out those flavors.

Plus, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd at any summer gathering or family reunion. It’s easy to make in advance and can be stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Trust me when I say this: once you try Southern Redneck Caviar, you won’t be able to get enough of it. So what are you waiting for? Head to that grocery store and start cooking!

Ingredient List

 A colorful mix of veggies and flavors
A colorful mix of veggies and flavors

Get Your Ingredients: Here’s What You’ll Need

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients to make Southern Redneck Caviar, also known as Cowboy or Carolina Caviar. This hearty, flavor-packed dip is perfect for parties, picnics, or just a casual snack with some tortilla chips. With its hearty blend of black-eyed-peas, diced tomatoes, green pepper, and other flavorful veggies and spices, this caviar is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious southern delicacy:

Vegetables:

  • 2 (15 oz) cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
  • 1 (10 oz) can whole kernel corn
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles
  • 1/2 cup chopped purple onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Spices:

  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder

Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

Optional Additions:

  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup Ro-Tel tomatoes
  • 2 (15 oz) cans shoepeg corn

Make sure you have these ingredients on hand before starting the recipe. Let’s get cooking!

The Recipe How-To

 Dip into this delicious southern goodness
Dip into this delicious southern goodness

Now that we have gathered all the ingredients and set up the kitchen, it is time to dive into the recipe. Trust me; this southern redneck caviar recipe will earn you loads of compliments at your next party, and your guests will be mesmerized by its flavor. In this section, I’ll guide you through preparing this dish step by step.

Step 1: Prepare vegetables and beans

• Begin by rinsing a can of black-eyed peas, a can of black beans, and a can of corn in a colander until the water runs clear.

• Dice one medium-sized purple onion, half a green bell pepper, and slice one-fourth cup of black olives.

• Combine all the vegetables and beans in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Ro-Tel tomatoes

• Open a can of Ro-Tel tomatoes and drain its juice before adding it to the mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add seasonings

• Sprinkle two teaspoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, half a teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and one tablespoon of dried parsley flakes.

• Toss everything together until the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix vinegar dressing

• Mix one-fourth cup each of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian dressing in a small bowl.

• Pour the mixture over the vegetables and toss once more to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill for a few hours

• Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap, put it in the fridge, and let it chill for at least two hours.

• This helps all flavors blend together, making it even better after being served.

That’s it! Now use your favorite side dish or tortilla chips to serve up the Southern Redneck Caviar and let everyone enjoy its bountiful, delicious flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

 Perfect appetizer for a hot summer day
Perfect appetizer for a hot summer day

Looking for ways to make your Southern Redneck Caviar Recipe even more amazing? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try out to give your caviar recipe a unique twist.

Firstly, if you want to add more flavor to your caviar, you can use different beans in the recipe. Chickpeas, kidney beans or navy beans all work great as substitutes for black beans. Similarly, pinto beans can be substituted for black-eyed peas. You can also mix and match the beans as per your preference.

For those who don’t like black olives or green peppers, don’t fret – you can replace them with other vegetables such as zucchini or jalapeños to personalize your recipe. Try adding fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for an added zing.

If you have leftovers from Taco night, add some leftover taco meat or shredded chicken for a protein-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch.

To elevate the flavors of the dish even further, consider using different types of dressings. For instance, instead of red wine vinegar and Italian dressing, try lime juice and hot sauce – this will give it an authentic Southwestern flavor.

Another variation is adding diced mangoes or peaches to create a sweeter version of Southern Redneck Caviar. It makes it perfect for BBQ parties in summertime!

For those who prefer spicy food, increase the amount of chili powder and cumin in the recipe. You’ll find yourself with an even bolder flavor palette.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the perfect ingredients combination for this recipe – so feel free to experiment until you find what works best for you.

Serving and Pairing

 Fresh ingredients make all the difference
Fresh ingredients make all the difference

When it comes to serving Southern Redneck Caviar, the possibilities are endless. This dish can be served as a side dish, appetizer or even a main course.

For a simple yet satisfying snack, serve this caviar with tortilla chips or crackers. The chunky texture of the dish pairs perfectly with the crunch of the chips.

If you’re looking to elevate this dish into an entree, try serving it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. The bold flavors of the cumin and chili powder will add a punch to any bland protein.

This dish also pairs well with other Southern favorites like pulled pork, collard greens and cornbread. The mix of black-eyed peas, corn and bell peppers in this caviar also makes it a perfect addition to any summer BBQ or potluck.

To balance out the bold flavors in this dish, consider pairing it with something light and refreshing like a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

In terms of presentation, garnish the caviar with some fresh parsley flakes to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Southern Redneck Caviar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 A taste of the south in every bite
A taste of the south in every bite

One of the best things about making Southern Redneck Caviar is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. This makes it the perfect dish for hosting events or bringing to potlucks.

After preparing the caviar, allow it to cool down and reach room temperature. Once this has been achieved, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve it, give it a good stir to redistribute the flavors.

If you have leftovers that you want to store, make sure that they are also put in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. The caviar should remain fresh for up to three days, but any longer than that and you risk the ingredients becoming mushy and losing their texture.

When it comes time to reheat, gently warm up the caviar in a skillet over low heat while stirring occasionally. This will ensure that all of the flavors meld together nicely without overheating or cooking out any of the key ingredients. Alternatively, you can also opt to serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish during warmer months.

Overall, Southern Redneck Caviar remains an incredibly versatile recipe when it comes to serving and storage options!

Tips for Perfect Results

 Don't let the name fool you, it's a gourmet treat
Don’t let the name fool you, it’s a gourmet treat

Southern Redneck Caviar is a savory mix of black-eyed peas, black beans, bell pepper, and corn, tossed in an Italian dressing and red wine vinegar dressing. This recipe is both flavorful and easy to make, but there are a few tips that can help you achieve the perfect results every time. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when making Southern Redneck Caviar.

Firstly, when preparing the vegetables for this recipe, it’s best to chop them finely. You want each ingredient to be small enough so that every bite includes a bit of everything. Cut the peppers and purple onion into small cubes and chop the tomatoes into small pieces. I suggest using a sharp knife or a food processor to ensure even and consistent cuts.

Secondly, be careful not to over-cook or under-cook the beans and corn. You want them to be tender but still have a slight bite to them. Drain and rinse the canned beans thoroughly before adding them to the mix.

Thirdly, it’s all about the dressing! Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and well-aged red wine vinegar for optimal flavors. Be sure to whisk the dressing well before pouring it over the vegetables to ensure equal distribution.

Fourthly, refrigeration brings out the flavors of Southern Redneck Caviar. Chill it for at least an hour before serving to let all the flavors marry together nicely. If you’re making this dish ahead of time, wait until just before serving your dish—add avocado last minute at plating—to add avocados or any ingredients that could become easily mushy.

Lastly, don’t forget that presentation matters! Serve the caviar with tortilla chips for dipping, or try serving small portions in crisp lettuce cups for an elegant appetizer.

By following these tips above, you’ll be on your way to delicious Southern Redneck Caviar every time.

FAQ

Now that you know how to make the perfect Southern Redneck Caviar, it’s time to answer some of the frequently asked questions about this recipe. From ingredient substitutions to preparation techniques, these FAQs will clarify any lingering doubts you may have and ensure that your caviar turns out amazing every time. So, let’s dive in and get all the answers you need!

What is actually in Cowboy Caviar?

This recipe is for a refreshing and flavorful salad made with black-eyed peas, coated in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s commonly referred to as Texas caviar or cowboy caviar and often served as a dip alongside crispy tortilla chips.

How long does redneck Caviar last in fridge?

If you want your Redneck/Cowboy Caviar to stay fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay good for roughly five days. To give it an extra boost of flavor before serving, try adding a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Why do they call it Cowboy Caviar?

The dish known as Cowboy Caviar or Texas Caviar has an interesting origin story rooted in the culinary history of Dallas. It was first crafted by a famous chef named Helen Corbitt who served as the culinary director at Neiman Marcus in the 1940s. Since then, this dish has remained a beloved favorite among Texans and even made appearances at the State Fair of Texas in a fried form.

What is the other name for Cowboy Caviar?

This dish goes by various names, such as Cowboy Salsa, Southwestern Veggie Salad, and Tex Mex Caviar. I know it best as Cowboy Caviar, but it’s also called Hillbilly Caviar, Southern Caviar, and more.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Southern Redneck Caviar Recipe is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. With its combination of black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, and tomatoes, this dish offers a flavorful twist on the traditional caviar dip recipe. Plus, its versatility allows for various substitutions and variations to satisfy any taste preference.

So why not give this recipe a try and impress your guests at your next get-together? And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some of your own favorite ingredients to make it truly unique. Remember to follow the tips and recommendations included in this article for perfect results every time.

In the end, whether you’re a redneck or not, this dish is sure to please with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Don’t hesitate to give it a shot – you might just discover a new family favorite!

Southern Redneck Caviar

Southern Redneck Caviar Recipe

Have fun with this dish. This is a great dish to experiment with, you can add or subtract ingredients to fit your personal taste. I have added black-eyed pea relish, jalapeños, and even pear relish on occasions, depending on my mood and what I had on hand. This is a fun dish and people of all ages love it.
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Prep Time 8 hrs
Cook Time 0 mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Calories 247.1 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 (15 7/8 ounce) cans black-eyed peas, drained
  • 2 (10 ounce) cans shoe peg corn or (10 ounce) cans corn, drained
  • 2 (10 ounce) cans Ro-Tel tomatoes, drained
  • 1 (15 7/8 ounce) can black olives, chopped
  • 1 green pepper, chopped really small
  • 1 red pepper, chopped really small
  • 1 (15 7/8 ounce) can black beans, drained
  • 1 larger purple onion, chopped really small
  • 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped small
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, only if you want a bit of a kick to it)
  • 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
  • 16 ounces house Italian dressing or 16 ounces zesty Italian dressing

Instructions
 

  • Mix all ingredients together.
  • Refrigerate at least 8 hours before serving, so flavors can fuse (this is the key to this dish).
  • Serve with Tostitos Scoops or whatever chips you prefer.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 199gCalories: 247.1kcalCarbohydrates: 29.7gProtein: 6.9gFat: 12.8gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 1219.3mgFiber: 6.4gSugar: 5g
Keyword Beans, Brunch, Easy, Egg-free, For Large Groups, Free Of..., Healthy, Low Cholesterol, Low Protein, Southwestern, Vegetable
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